Prevalence and Associated Factors of Diabetic Retinopathy among Cameroonians Patients Followed in Two Hospitals in the City of Garoua – North Cameroon

Abstract

This study aims to fill this gap by conducting a cross-sectional and analytical investigation within the ophthalmology departments of Garoua General Hospital and Garoua Regional Hospital. By focusing on type 2 diabetic patients, we endeavor to elucidate the factors contributing to the presence of DR in our local context over a period of 1 year from January 3rd, 2023 to January 15th, 2024. Demographic data (age, sex, and profession) and clinical information were collected. Ocular examinations included measurement of visual acuity, slit lamp examination, and fundus examination. Additional tests, such as macular optical coherence tomography and ocular ultrasound, were conducted when necessary. Diagnosed ocular pathologies were documented. The mean age of our patients is 53.9 years with a standard deviation of 13.2 years. Notably, there is a predominant representation of females. Regarding ocular health, 8.8% of patient exhibit blindness. The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in our cohort is 24.5% with a 95% confidence interval ranging from 16.16 to 32.86%. It is noteworthy that all patients diagnosed with DR have a glycated hemoglobin level exceeding 7%. We have observed a prevalent occurrence of diabetic retinopathy within our community. Notably, all individuals diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy exhibit abnormal levels of glycated hemoglobin.